A grand banquet in Leiming drew to a close under Chen Ping'an's absolute authority and direction.
At the banquet, the Left Path Alliance Great Elder, Hu Yanqing, held a cup in his hands and bowed as he faced him. His attitude was humble, his bearing lowered to the bone.
"Lord Chen, back then, Hu had eyes but failed to recognize Mount Tai. Hu was disrespectful. Let this cup of wine serve as an apology. I ask that you not take offense, my lord."
Hu Yanqing's apology was not merely a cup of wine, but also the sandalwood treasure chest that had appeared alongside him.
Chen Ping'an did not so much as raise his eyelids, merely lowering his gaze in silent acceptance of Hu Yanqing's apology.
Although there had been some unpleasantness during that trip to the Left Path Alliance, Hu Yanqing had remained fairly courteous. With this apology, the matter was laid to rest.
Chen Ping'an's attitude did not leave Hu Yanqing with the slightest dissatisfaction. On the contrary, Chen Ping'an's tacit acceptance delighted him, and he drained the wine from his cup in one gulp.
"Thank you, my lord!"
With Hu Yanqing setting an example, everyone present was greatly stirred and stepped forward to state their positions.
"My lord has overseen Leiming with great toil and merit. Your past Encirclement and Suppression of Demonic Cultivators was an undertaking that benefited generations to come. This trifling gift is merely a token of our regard. Please do not disdain it."
"Lord Chen stands among the storm clouds. We have long heard of you and admired you deeply. To see you again today leaves us utterly satisfied. This humble gift is offered with respect; please do not take offense, my lord."
"Division Head Chen's might is as vast as heaven and sea.